分类: sports

  • Destang named Florida swimmer of the year

    Destang named Florida swimmer of the year

    Antoine Destang, Saint Lucia’s most accomplished young swimmer, continues to make waves both nationally and internationally. As he gears up to represent his country at the upcoming Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Championships in St Vincent and the Grenadines, Destang is still basking in the glory of his high school achievements. Now a freshman student-athlete at the University of Michigan, he has already begun to carve out a promising collegiate career.

    Destang’s recent accolades include being named Florida Swimmer of the Year for his age group at the 2025 Florida Swimming Annual Awards Banquet. This honor places him alongside swimming legends like Katy Ledecky, the most decorated female swimmer in history. His senior year at The Bolles School was marked by multiple top-ten national performances in the 15-17 age group, showcasing his ability to excel under pressure.

    Earlier this year, Destang shone at the CARIFTA Aquatics Championships in Trinidad and Tobago, securing a bronze medal in the freestyle and a silver in the 100m butterfly. His performance in the latter event was the third fastest in CARIFTA history. Competing for the Bolles Sharks, he amassed five medals and eight top-ten finishes in the first quarter of 2025, including a silver in the 100-yard backstroke at the Florida Senior Championship.

    Destang’s versatility was further highlighted at the French Elite Championships and the 22nd World Aquatics Championships in Singapore, where he competed against seasoned professionals. At Michigan, he has already achieved a top-ten finish in the 100-yard butterfly, signaling his potential to become a world-class swimmer.

    As the OECS Championships approach, Destang aims to help Saint Lucia improve on their previous fourth-place finish. Despite being overlooked for Saint Lucia’s Junior Sportsman of the Year award in 2023 and 2024, his consistent performances and record-breaking swims have cemented his status as one of the Caribbean’s brightest swimming talents.

  • West Indies grab 1-0 T20 series lead against Bangladesh

    West Indies grab 1-0 T20 series lead against Bangladesh

    The West Indies cricket team secured a commanding 1-0 lead in their three-match T20 series against Bangladesh with a hard-fought 16-run victory in the opening game on October 27 in Chattogram. Opting to bat first, the West Indies openers, Alick Athanaze and Brandon King, laid a solid foundation with a 59-run partnership. However, their progress was cautious, with boundaries proving elusive. Athanaze departed for 34 off 27 balls, followed by King for 33 off 36 deliveries, leaving the team at 82/3 by the 13th over. Captain Shai Hope and former skipper Rovman Powell then took charge, accelerating the innings with a flurry of boundaries. Their unbeaten partnership of 83 runs propelled the West Indies to a competitive total of 165/3 in their allotted 20 overs. Hope finished with 46 not out, while Powell remained unbeaten on 44. Taskin Ahmed was the standout bowler for Bangladesh, claiming 2/36. In reply, Bangladesh started aggressively but lost early wickets, including Tanzid Hasan and captain Litton Das. Despite a valiant effort from Tanzim Hasan Sakib, who scored 33 off 27 balls, Bangladesh faltered, bowled out for 149 in 19.4 overs. The West Indies’ bowling attack, led by Jason Holder (3/31) and Jayden Seales (3/32), proved decisive. Akeal Hosein also contributed with 2/22. The second match of the series is scheduled for October 29.

  • Paul misses Track World Championship medal

    Paul misses Track World Championship medal

    Trinidad and Tobago’s cycling sensation Nicholas Paul narrowly missed out on a podium finish at the 2025 Track World Championships in Santiago, Chile, on October 26. Paul, who had previously secured silver medals in the 2021 and 2023 editions, finished fourth in the men’s sprint event, marking a disappointing end to the nation’s campaign. This year’s result contrasts sharply with the past two championships, where Paul had been a standout performer. Ranked fourth in the International Cycling Union’s individual sprint standings, Paul faced Dutch speedster Harrie Lavreysen in the semi-finals. Despite a valiant effort, Paul was outclassed by Lavreysen, who went on to claim gold in the final. In the bronze-medal race, Paul faced Australian Leigh Hoffman. Although Paul briefly took the lead in the first race, Hoffman’s resilience in the sprint lane secured him the bronze. The second race saw Hoffman dominate, leaving Paul without a medal. The championships also saw mixed results for other Trinidad and Tobago cyclists. Makaira Wallace, making her World Championships debut in the women’s keirin, failed to advance beyond the first round. Akil Campbell finished 16th in the men’s elimination race, while his sister Teniel did not complete the women’s points race. Despite the setbacks, Paul’s performance in the keirin and 1km time trial, along with the participation of veteran Njisane Phillip, highlighted Trinidad and Tobago’s presence on the global stage.

  • NLCL Nation’s Cup to kick-off Xmas holidays

    NLCL Nation’s Cup to kick-off Xmas holidays

    Trinidad and Tobago’s premier youth football academies and clubs are preparing to showcase their talent against Caribbean rivals at the NLCL Nation’s Cup – International Holiday Fun Festival. Scheduled to take place from December 19 to 21 at the Manny Ramjohn Stadium in Marabella, this event promises to be a thrilling showcase of young footballing talent. The tournament will feature competitions in four age categories: Under 9, Under 11, Under 13, and Under 15, with participants vying for cash prizes, trophies, and medals. Organized by the Next Level Foundation, the event builds on the success of previous NLCL Community Cup tournaments. Bermudez Biscuit Company’s Dixiee returns as an official sponsor, alongside key supporters such as Next Level Consulting Ltd, Agostini Ltd, Point Lisas Nitrogen Ltd, and First Citizens. Notable youth clubs like City FC, Cox Coaching School, Creek Sports & Cultural Club, Dunstan Williams Soccer Academy, and Union Hall United have already confirmed their participation. Beyond the matches, attendees can enjoy live performances, DJs, a Family Fun Zone, and complimentary samples from vendors. Brian K Jordan, foundation chairman, emphasized the event’s focus on community engagement and youth development. Germaine Jordan, tournament chairperson, encouraged additional sponsors and teams to join, highlighting the importance of investing in young footballers. For further details, interested parties can visit NLCL Community Cup’s social media pages or contact the organizers directly.

  • Ramkissoon elected TTCB treasurer, John remains 2nd VP

    Ramkissoon elected TTCB treasurer, John remains 2nd VP

    Stephen Ramkissoon has successfully retained his position as treasurer of the Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board (TTCB) following the organization’s annual general meeting (AGM) and elections held on October 25 at the National Cricket Centre in Balmain, Couva. Ramkissoon, who assumed the role earlier this year after his predecessor Kiswah Chaitoo was ousted in a motion of no confidence, will now serve a full four-year term. He secured the position with a decisive 29-12 victory over Central Sports owner Richard Ramkissoon, who is no relation. The elections also saw Kerwin John, head of the Tobago Cricket Association, retain his role as second vice-president after defeating Rajendra Mangalie 27-13. Additionally, Avinash Suruj of the Central Zone was elected third vice-president, outpacing veteran administrator Parasram Singh 29-12. Five new members—Ravi Teeluck, Anand Rampersad, Ann Brown John, Frank Simmons, and Mitra Ragoonanan—joined the executive with membership status, while Sharaz Mohammed of the Secondary Schools Cricket League fell short with only ten votes. Azim Bassarath, who has led the TTCB since 2009, retained his presidency uncontested. However, this marks his final term due to recently amended term limits. Altaf Baksh and Henry Chase were also elected unopposed as first vice-president and general secretary, respectively. Ammar Samaroo, secretary of the TTCB elections committee, confirmed the process was seamless, stating, ‘Everything went extremely smoothly and according to plan.’

  • Cordner to lead Trinidad and Tobago for Reggae Girlz friendly

    Cordner to lead Trinidad and Tobago for Reggae Girlz friendly

    The Trinidad and Tobago (TT) senior women’s football team is gearing up for a pivotal friendly match against Jamaica on October 28 at the Ato Boldon Stadium in Couva. Veteran forward Kennya “Yaya” Cordner will once again lead the team as captain, a decision confirmed by newly appointed co-head coach Damian Briggs during a pre-match press conference on October 27. Cordner’s return to the national team brings much-needed leadership and experience to a squad that has been largely inactive over the past year. Briggs emphasized her role as a mentor and communicator, both on and off the pitch, highlighting her ability to motivate the team during challenging times. The match against Jamaica serves as a critical benchmark for the TT women’s team as they prepare for the upcoming Concacaf Women’s World Cup qualifiers, set to begin on November 30 against Barbados. Briggs, who shares coaching responsibilities with former Soca Warriors midfielder Densill Theobald, expressed optimism about the team’s progress despite a short preparation window of just three weeks. The coaching duo has focused on building team chemistry, structure, and belief, aiming to deliver competitive and attractive football. With only three foreign-based players in the current squad, the match will also provide an opportunity to evaluate local talent. Briggs acknowledged the challenges posed by Jamaica’s match-ready squad but remains confident in the team’s work ethic and determination. The friendly marks the start of a new chapter for TT women’s football, with Briggs and Theobald committed to helping the team achieve its goals. Kick-off is scheduled for 8 pm, with gates opening at 6 pm and admission priced at $60.

  • SERIOUS BUSINESS!

    SERIOUS BUSINESS!

    The Jamaica senior women’s football team, the Reggae Girlz, are set to face Caribbean rivals Trinidad and Tobago in an international friendly match at the Ato Boldon Stadium in Couva on Tuesday. The game, scheduled for 7:00 pm (Jamaica time), serves as a critical preparatory fixture for both teams ahead of the upcoming Concacaf Women’s World Cup qualifiers in November. Head Coach Hubert Busby expressed confidence in his team’s ability to deliver a strong performance, emphasizing the match’s importance in refining tactical strategies. Despite missing key players due to injuries, including goalkeeper Rebecca Spencer and midfielder Atlanta Primus, Busby remains optimistic about the squad’s depth. Young talents like Mia Mitchell and Lola Nesbeth have been called up to fill the void, with veteran players expected to guide them. Busby highlighted the team’s focus on improving possession and transition play during training sessions. The match is anticipated to be a fiercely contested encounter, with both teams aiming to build momentum ahead of the qualifiers. Jamaica, coming off a historic run to the last 16 in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, will look to continue their upward trajectory. Trinidad and Tobago, under interim coaches Damian Briggs and Densill Theobald, are determined to challenge their regional rivals and boost their confidence. The Reggae Girlz are placed in Group B for the qualifiers, alongside Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Guyana, and Nicaragua, while Trinidad and Tobago will compete in Group F against Barbados, El Salvador, and Honduras. This friendly marks Jamaica’s final preparation match before the qualifiers, with both teams eager to make a statement on the pitch.

  • Star sprinter Ka Ying Rising wins world’s richest turf race, The Everest

    Star sprinter Ka Ying Rising wins world’s richest turf race, The Everest

    In a spectacular display of speed and skill, Hong Kong’s superstar sprinter Ka Ying Rising, ridden by renowned jockey Zac Purton, clinched his 14th consecutive victory at The Everest 2025, the world’s richest turf race, held at Sydney’s Royal Randwick. The David Hayes-trained five-year-old surged ahead in the final 100 meters, securing a decisive win by a length and claiming the staggering prize of Aus$7.0 million (US$4.7 million) for a race that lasted just over a minute. Tempted, with Craig Williams aboard, finished second, followed by Jimmysstar, ridden by Ethan Brown. Ka Ying Rising, now hailed as the planet’s premier sprinter, boasts an impressive record of 15 wins in 17 starts, including 14 consecutive victories, most of which were under Purton’s expert guidance. The gelding’s only two losses were second-place finishes. Purton, who flew in from Hong Kong to pilot Ka Ying Rising from barrier seven, noted the horse’s initial restlessness in the gate but praised his performance: ‘He still began well and had a beautiful run in the race.’ Jimmysstar led early, but Ka Ying Rising’s relentless pace in the final stretch sealed the victory. Purton, 42 and nearing the end of his illustrious career, expressed deep emotion: ‘It makes you a little bit emotional. I’ve been really lucky to have this horse come along now, and it’s a great way to close my career.’ The Everest, a 1,200-meter race featuring 12 elite sprinters under weight-for-age conditions, is the crown jewel of the Sydney Spring Carnival, offering a total prize pool of Aus$20 million (US$13 million). It is the second-richest thoroughbred race globally, trailing only the Saudi Cup. Even the last-placed horse, Magic Time, earned Aus$700,000. Trainer David Hayes described the win as a ‘crowning moment’ in his career, while owner Leung Shek-kong celebrated the triumph. The race’s innovative format, inspired by the Pegasus World Cup, involves buyers purchasing Aus$700,000 slots and partnering with owners and jockeys to secure top horses, with prize money shared among participants.

  • Trinidad and Tobago women’s coach: Asha James ‘not left out forever’

    Trinidad and Tobago women’s coach: Asha James ‘not left out forever’

    The Trinidad and Tobago women’s football team remains united and fully focused as they prepare for their October 28 international friendly against Jamaica, despite the recent exclusion of playmaker Asha James. James was omitted from the 23-member squad announced on October 24, following a critical Facebook post she directed at team captain Kennya “Yaya” Cordner on October 20. This incident occurred just one day after former head coach Angus Eve resigned after only 20 days in charge.

    Newly appointed co-head coach Damian Briggs addressed the situation during a pre-match interview at Ato Boldon Stadium in Couva on October 27. Briggs clarified that James’ omission was not disciplinary but had been handled internally before his appointment. He emphasized that the decision was not permanent and that James was informed of the outcome, with both parties reaching an amicable resolution. Briggs confirmed that James is expected to rejoin the team after the Jamaica match.

    Briggs, who replaced Eve, stated that the squad has moved past the distractions and is focused on performing well against their regional rivals. He highlighted the team’s unity and shared goals, saying, “We’ve bonded and gelled together. Everyone’s singing from the same hymn sheet.” The team aims to create a legacy in women’s football for Trinidad and Tobago, with the Jamaica game serving as a platform to showcase their progress and unity.

    Briggs also noted that the technical staff has implemented measures to minimize distractions and ensure the team remains focused on their upcoming challenges, including the Concacaf Women’s qualifiers starting on November 30. The Jamaica friendly marks Briggs’s first assignment as head coach of the Women Warriors.

  • Arteta sees room for Arsenal improvement as Eze haunts Palace

    Arteta sees room for Arsenal improvement as Eze haunts Palace

    Arsenal continued their impressive Premier League campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Crystal Palace at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday. Eberechi Eze’s first Premier League goal for the Gunners proved decisive, as the England midfielder struck late in the first half to secure three crucial points. The win extended Arsenal’s lead at the top of the table, with the team now four points clear of second-placed Bournemouth and six ahead of Manchester City, who suffered a surprising 1-0 defeat to Aston Villa. Liverpool’s 3-2 loss to Brentford further bolstered Arsenal’s position, leaving the defending champions in turmoil after four consecutive defeats. Despite the victory, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta emphasized the need for improvement, stating, ‘It’s very early, we’re still in October. The emotional state is really high, but there are a lot of things to get better.’ The match also saw injury concerns for Arsenal, with Declan Rice limping off in the second half and William Saliba unable to continue after the interval. Arsenal’s defensive solidity remained a highlight, as they recorded their 10th clean sheet of the season, conceding just three goals in 13 games across all competitions. Eze’s goal, a product of Arsenal’s renowned set-piece prowess, marked their 11th set-piece goal this season, a record in Europe’s top five leagues. The victory further fueled optimism among Arsenal fans, who are hopeful that this could be the season the club ends its 20-year Premier League title drought.